Restaurant Recovery Pilot Project.

Sponsored by the Massachusetts Office of Business Development and Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation

Our Approach

The Restaurant Recovery Pilot Project (R2P2) was created to address the severe challenges faced by minority-owned restaurants and small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sponsored by the Massachusetts Office of Business Development and led by a team of seasoned professionals, R2P2 offers comprehensive assistance to help these businesses recover, adapt, and grow.​

Through targeted support in technology, training, and financial guidance, the project aims to revitalize restaurants in Gateway Cities, empowering them as economic and cultural anchors in their communities.

The Challenges We Address

Restaurants, beauty salons, and other businesses requiring personal contact were among the hardest hit during the pandemic. Minority-owned businesses, especially in Gateway Cities, faced unique struggles:

  1. Massive Closures: Over 150,000 restaurants closed nationwide, including 4,000 in Massachusetts.

  2. Economic Disparity: The pandemic deepened economic inequalities, with underserved communities bearing the brunt.

  3. Labor Shortages: Difficulty in hiring and retaining employees added pressure to businesses.

  4. High Unemployment: Latino workers in Massachusetts experienced a 15% unemployment rate at its peak.

Workshops & Events

R2P2 offers a series of workshops tailored for restaurant operators and small business owners. These sessions focus on practical solutions and actionable strategies:

Defining Post-Pandemic Operations

Redefine your business strategy for long-term success.

Social Media Content Tools

Use free or low-cost tools to enhance your social media presence.

For Small Owners

For Restaurant Operators

Basics of Accounting

Understand financial statements and accounting methods.

Restaurant Recovery Overview

Learn strategies to overcome pandemic challenges.

Digital Marketing Strategies

Define your digital marketing goals and reach your ideal customers.

Technology Solutions

Explore the benefits of tools like POS systems and online ordering.​

Our Mission and Objectives

R2P2 aims to restore and sustain minority-owned restaurants and small businesses as pillars of their communities.

  1. Revitalizing Revenue Streams: Support businesses in returning to pre-pandemic revenue levels through innovation, best practices, and resource-sharing.

  2. Leveraging Technology: Promote tools like Point-of-Sale (POS) systems and online ordering to enhance efficiency and growth.

  3. Preserving Cultural Vibrancy: Ensure that ethnic restaurants continue to thrive as cultural and economic contributors to their cities.

Understanding the Market

Minority populations are driving economic and demographic growth in Massachusetts, with Gateway Cities serving as hubs for cultural diversity and entrepreneurship.

  • Demographic Shifts: While the state's overall population grew by 7.4%, the Hispanic/Latino population surged by 41.4%, reaching nearly 900,000.

  • Business Trends: Over 50,000 new businesses launched in 2021, signaling a resilient entrepreneurial spirit.

  • Technology Adoption: Increasing willingness among minority entrepreneurs to adopt digital tools like online ordering and delivery services.

Our Proposed Solutions

R2P2 combines innovative tools and personalized support to address the unique needs of minority-owned restaurants.

  1. Technical Assistance: One-on-one counseling from Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to improve business strategies, operations, and financial planning.

  2. Technology Integration: Implementation of LOCAY, a low-cost online ordering platform that keeps 100% of sales revenues with the restaurant owner.

  3. Training & Education: Workshops and clinics covering topics like digital marketing, restaurant operations, and financial literacy.

Key Deliverables and Outcomes

R2P2 is committed to measurable results that make a tangible impact on the restaurant industry in Gateway Cities.

  • Outreach to 100 restaurant owners to encourage program participation.

  • Installation of the LOCAY online ordering system in 10 establishments.

  • Delivery of technical assistance services to 50 businesses.

  • Support for a diverse range of Gateway Cities, including Lynn, Chelsea, Lawrence, and Springfield.

  • Outreach to 100 restaurant owners to encourage program participation.

  • Installation of the LOCAY online ordering system in 10 establishments.

  • Delivery of technical assistance services to 50 businesses.

  • Support for a diverse range of Gateway Cities, including Lynn, Chelsea, Lawrence, and Springfield.

Meet the Leadership Team

Nader Acevedo

Project Director

35 years of expertise in finance, community development, and business leadership. He has held prominent roles, including Executive Vice President at the Hispanic-American Institute and President of the Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce. Nader’s experience spans banking, education, and small business advocacy.

Alberto Calvo

Technical Advisor

A seasoned engineering and business professional, Alberto has over 35 years of experience in logistics, supply chain management, and entrepreneurship. He co-founded Stop and Compare Markets, serving the Hispanic/Latino community in Massachusetts. Alberto holds degrees from Northeastern University, M.I.T., and Boston University.

Get Involved

If you're a restaurant owner or small business operator looking to participate, we'd love to hear from you!

Together, let's rebuild a vibrant and thriving restaurant industry in Massachusetts.